Secure temporary residency in regional areas with a pathway to permanent residency.
Skilled Employer Sponsored Visa
(Subclass 494)
Work and live in regional Australia through employer sponsorship.
The Skilled Employer Sponsored Visa (Subclass 494) is a provisional visa that enables qualified workers to fill skill shortages in regional Australia when local labour cannot meet demand. This visa allows applicants to live and work in Australia for up to five years, provided they are nominated by an approved employer.
Applicants are required to complete a skills assessment in their nominated occupation as part of the eligibility criteria.
Given the complexity of the visa process, professional guidance is highly recommended. Career Education Consultancy Australia (CECA) provides expert support to simplify your migration journey and ensure your application meets all government requirements.
Key Eligibility Criteria
Applicant Requirements
To qualify for Subclass 494, you generally must:
Be nominated by an approved employer operating in a designated regional area
Have an occupation on the relevant Skilled Occupation List
Hold a valid skills assessment for your occupation (unless exempt)
Have at least 3 years of full-time, relevant work experience
Meet the required level of English proficiency
Be under 45 years of age at the time of application (unless exempt)
Meet health and character requirements
Employer / Sponsor Requirements
Must be located in a designated regional area
Must be an approved business sponsor or willing to become one
Must have a genuine, full-time position available for at least 5 years
Must meet salary, employment, training, and compliance obligations
Must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by an Australian citizen or permanent resident
Visa Conditions
You and your family must live, work, and study only in a designated regional area
You must work only for your sponsoring employer (or their associated entity)
Changing employers requires a new nomination and approval
If employment ends, you generally have a limited period to find a new approved sponsor
All secondary applicants must comply with visa conditions and regional requirements
Pathway to Permanent Residency
After holding the Subclass 494 visa and meeting your obligations, you may be eligible to apply for the Subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) Visa, typically after:
At least 3 years living and working in a designated regional area
Meeting income, employment, and compliance requirements
Showing continuous adherence to 494 visa conditions
Permanent residency is not automatic — a separate Subclass 191 application is required.
FAQs About Skilled Employer Sponsored Visa (Subclass 494)
What is the Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Visa in Australia?
The Subclass 494 Visa is a regional provisional visa that allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers to fill positions in designated regional areas of Australia.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Subclass 494 Visa in Australia?
To be eligible for the Subclass 494 Visa, applicants must have an occupation listed on the Regional Occupation List (ROL), be nominated by an approved employer in a designated regional area, meet English language and skill requirements, and pass health and character checks.
What is the Regional Occupation List (ROL) in Australia?
The Regional Occupation List (ROL) is a list of occupations currently in demand in Australia’s designated regional areas. Only applicants with occupations on this list can apply for the Subclass 494 Visa.
Do I need a job offer to apply for the Subclass 494 Visa in Australia?
Yes. A valid job offer from an approved employer in a designated regional area is required. Your employer must nominate you for the Subclass 494 Visa and be an authorised sponsor.
What are the English language requirements for the Subclass 494 Visa in Australia?
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test such as IELTS or PTE to meet the visa eligibility requirements.
